Headgear with automatic sizing means

ABSTRACT

This invention relates to a headgear construction comprising a shell having fitting means secured within the shell for engagement with the head of the wearer. The fitting means include at least one chamber connected to a source of compressible fluid. Upon placement of the headgear on the head, the source of fluid is engaged by the wearer&#39;&#39;s head to displace fluid from the reservoir into the chamber. At the same time, means automatically restrict the flow of fluid from the chamber back to the source whereby there is a variation in the dimensions of the head receiving space of the headgear. The wearer can, thus, force a variation in the head receiving space until a comfortable fit is achieved, and then release pressure whereby the size achieved will be automatically retained until the headgear is removed.

Un ted States Patent 1191 Morgan Feb. 18, 1975 [54] HEADGEAR WITHAUTOMATIC SIZING 3,787.893 1/1974 Larcher 2/3 R MEANS PrimaryExaminer-Werner H. Schroeder [75] Inventor. Gerard E. Morgan, LakeForest, 111. Attorney, Agent, or Firm MCDOugalL Hersh & Scott [73]Assignee: Riddell Inc., Chicago, Ill. I [22] Filed: Oct. 15, 1973ABSTRACT This invention relates to a headgear construction com- [2HAppl' 406,625 prising a shell having fitting means secured within theshell for engagement with the head of the wearer. The i521 R, 18 fittingmeans include at least one hamber onnected [5| 1 Int. Cl.,...'. A421)3/02 to a ource f compressible fluid Upon pIacement 0f Field Of SearchR, 3 A, 3 B, 3 C, 4, {he headgear on the head the ource f is en G- 6 l8. 5 gaged by the wearers head to displace fluid from the 273/65 65 Dreservoir into the chamber. At the same time, means automaticallyrestrict the flow of fluid from the chaml l References Cited ber-back tothe source whereby there is a variation in UNITED STATES PATENTS thedimensions of the head receiving space of the 1,520,049 12/1924 Beman2/68 headgear- The thus a variation in 9 0 5/1933 perry 273/65 D thehead receiving space until a comfortable fit is 2,072,483 3/1937Naund0rf 2/68 achieved, and then release pressure whereby the size2,589,716 3/l952 Marsh 273/65 C achieved will be automatically retaineduntil the head- 2,6Zl,334 12/1952 OHare 273/65 C gear is removed3,403,406 10/1968 Weissberg... 2/68 3,609,764 10/1971 Morgan Z/3-R 28Claims, 33 Drawing Figures ,PATENTEU FEB I W SHEET 2 BF 7 PMENTED v3866,2413

' SHEET 30F 7 4 FIGZY PATENTED FEB 1 8 I975 SHEET 7 BF 7 l I-IEADGEARWITH AUTOMATIC SIZING MEANS This invention relates to a headgearconstruction. Al-

though the invention is 'applicable to various types of headgear, itfinds particular utility in the case of protective type headgear havinga relatively hard outer shell construction. In such headgear, means aretypically provided within the shell to absorb the forces of impactwhereby the wearer of the headgear will be protected against suchimpact.

In headgear of the type described, problems arise from the standpoint ofachieving a suitable fit. Various fitting means, for example strap-typesuspensions, have been devised, however, these are not particularlycomfortable, and they are very inconvenient when the headgear is to beworn by different individuals. In addition, the assembly of suchsuspensions with the outer shell is often costly, and the cost ofsuitable sizing structures is also often high.

In order to provide less expensive protective headgear, sacrifices areoften made from the standpoint of fitting of the headgearand also fromthe standpoint of protection. For example, hard hats used inconstruction and military headgear are preferably produced on a highproduction-low cost basis, and the comfort and protective ability ofsuch headgear is often minimal. Batting helmets represent anothercategory of protective headgear which is preferably produced at lowercost. In cases where different individuals are required to use the samehelmet, a poor fit is often tolerated in order to save the time requiredto adjust the helmet size.

It is a general object of this invention to provide a protectiveheadgear construction which includes sizing or fitting means adapted tooperate automatically whereby the construction is particularly adaptablefor use in'headgear intended to be worn by different individuals.

It is a further object of this invention to provide a protectiveheadgear construction which can be produced in a highly efficient mannerfrom relatively uncomplicated components whereby high production at lowcost can be achieved. 7

It is a still further object of this invention to provide a headgearconstruction of the type referred to in the foregoing objects which alsois characterized by completely adequate protection against impact forceswhile being particularly comfortable for the wearer of the headgear.

These and other objects of this invention will appear hereinafter andfor purposes of illustration, but not of limitation, specificembodiments of the invention are shown in the accompanying drawingsinwhich:

FIG. I is a cross-sectional view of a headgear constructioncharacterized by the features of this invention;

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the headgear construction takenabout the line 2-2 of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a bottom plan view of the headgear construction;

. 1 U an rge ragm a cr ss-ssst pn view illustrating a section of thesizing means employed in the construction;

FIG. 5 is a plan view of a fluid-containing fitting as- 65 semblyutilized in headgear constructions of the type covered by the invention;

FIG. 6 is a fragmentary perspective view illustrating a fluid shut-offmeans utilized in the headgear construction;

FIG. 7 is a fragmentary perspective view illustrating an alternativeform of fluid shut-off means;

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a different headgear constructionincorporating a sizing means of the type contemplated by the invention;

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the headgear constructionof FIG. 8 as it appears with the head of the wearer within the helmet;

FIG. 10 is a plan view illustrating the modified fluid fitting assemblyof the type incorporated in the headgear shown in FIG. 8;

FIG. 11 is an elevational view illustrating a modified form of airsupply reservoir for the fluid fitting assemy;

FIG. 12 is a side elevation of a helmet construction incorporating amodified arrangement;

FIG. 13 is an enlarged fragmentary detail view illustrating thearrangement of FIG. 12 with the helmet off;

FIG. 14 is an enlarged fragmentary detail view illustrating thearrangement of FIG. 12 with the helmet on;

FIG. 15 is a diagrammatic illustration of the overall fitting mechanismsemployed in the arrangement of FIG. 12;

FIG. 16 is an enlarged fragmentary illustration of the juncture meansemployed in the arrangement of FIG. 12;

FIG. 17 is a modified form ofjuncture arrangement;

FIG. 18 is a diagrammatic illustration, partly cut away, of anadditional form of fitting means;

FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative form of crownstructure incorporating features of the invention;

FIG. 20 is a bottom plan view of the portion of the structure of FIG. 19taken about the line 2020 of that figure;

FIG. 21 is an exploded perspective view of the elements shown in FIG.20;

FIG. 22 is a fragmentary perspective view illustrating the exteriorconfiguration of the structure of FIG. 19;

FIG. 23 is a horizontal sectional view illustrating a form of reservoirinflating and-deflating means usable with the constructions of theinvention;

FIG. 24 is a side elevation, partly cut away, illustrating a modifiedform of helmet fitting means shown with the helmet off;

FIG. 25 is a fragmentary cross-sectional view illustrating the fittingarrangement of FIG. 24 shown in the 'position of use;

ther crown structure arrangement characterized by the features of thisarrangement;

FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the crown structure ofFIG. during placing of a helmet on the head;

FIG. 32 is a further illustration of the crown structure of FIG. 30 inthe position of use; and,

FIG. 33 is a further view of the crown structure of FIG. 30 illustratingthe manner of relieving the fitting means for purposes of changing thehelmet size.

I The headgear construction of the invention comprises an outer portionwhich will be referred to as the shell and which may be of varyingdegrees of resiliency including a hard shell which would give only inthe case of impact. The invention is particularly concerned with fittingmeans secured within the shell for engagement with the head of thewearer, the fitting means being automatically operable whereby a properfit is achieved by the act of placing the headgear on the wearers head,and pulling down to move air from a main reservoir to peripheral airpillows.

The particular fitting means of the invention comprise at least onechamber connected to a source of compressible fluid. Valve means or thelike are provided for permitting passage of fluid from the source to thechamber. Means are also provided for enabling passage of fluid from thechamber to the source.

The structure of the invention operates upon placement of a headgear onthe head of the wearer. Force is thereby applied to the source of fluidwhereby the fluid. will flow into the chamber thereby expanding thechamber and varying the dimensions of the head receiving space withinthe helmet. The force is applied by the wearer until a comfortable fitis achieved. During this time, shut-off means automatically operate toprevent any substantial return of fluid from the chamber to the source.These shut-off means continue operation when the force being applied bythe wearer is relieved. Accordingly, the fit which is achieved by thewearer will be maintained.

Upon removal of the headgear, the shut-off means automatically becomesinoperative whereby the fluid will flow from thechamber back to thesource. Accordingly, the headgear is returned to its initial conditionwhereby another wearer can use the headgear and fit it to his particularneeds. FIGS. 1 through 6 illustrates one form of the invention. In thisembodiment, the headgear l includes a hard outer shell-l2. The shelltakes the 'form of a hard hat, or a football, hockey or batting helmet.In the latter case, a protective. ear flap would probably beincorporated with the helmet.

The helmet includes an inner liner 14 formed of a foam plastic, thisinner liner being engageable by the head of the wearer of the helmet.The liner defines an opening 16 in the crown area of the helmet, andthis opening is provided for receiving a downwardly extendingcompressible fluid reservoir 18.

As best shown in FIG. 5, the reservoir 18 comprises part of an assemblywhich also includes fluid receiving absorbing section 29 comprises astiffer material. Such vents movement from the chamber 24 back to thereservoir. Various valve structures could be employed, and reference ismade to Voller US. Pat. No. 3,332,420, for an example of a one-way valvestructure which can be incorporated into structures formed from plasticsheets.

A pair of conduits 34 and 36 extend from the chamber 24 to the chambers22 and 26, respectively. These conduits are provided for passing fluiddelivered from the reservoir 18 to the chambers 22 and 26. If desired,small diameter plastic tubes 38 and 40 may be disposed within theseconduits. These tubes may be of a somewhat stiffer material whereby anopen passage between the chambers can be assured.

Additional conduits 42 and 44, provided respectively with plastic tubes46 and 48, extend from the chambers 22 and 26 to the chamber 20. Withthis arrangement, air passing from the reservoir 18 will enter each ofthe four chambers. The chambers 22 and 26 are located at the sides ofthe helmet while the chambers 24 and 20 are located at the front andrear of the helmet, respectively. It will be appreciated that additionalchambers could be included where added protection against impact ordifferent. fitting characteristics were desired. Furthermore, theinvention contemplates fewer chambers including a single chamber whichcould extend around all or a portion of the inner surfaces of the helmetshell.

An additional conduit 50 carrying tubular element 52 extends between thechamber 20 and the reservoir 18. Shut-off means including an elongatedarm 54 which extends over the outer end of the chamber 18 are associatedwith the conduit 50. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 6, the arm 54 ishinged to a shorter arm 56. The arm 56 defines an opening 58 in the areaof the hinge 60 whereby the conduit 50 can be received in the opening.As best shown in FIG. 1, the shorter arm 56 is positioned adjacent theinside wall of the helmet shell 12.

In the operation of the helmet structure described, the user places thehelmet on his headand then presses downwardly. The head engages the arm54 which pivots the arm to press the arm against the conduit 50 whichshuts this line off. In the meantime, the pressure forces air out ofreservoir 18 through the valve 32 and conduit '30. Because of theinterconnection of the chamber 24 with the other chambers, air isdistributed into each chamber whereby the chambers expand. This resultsin the pressing of the liner 14 against the wearers head while at thesame time the helmet shell is lowered relative to the wearers head.Thus, the reservoir 18 will reduce in size while the chambers increasein size as is illustrated in FIG. 4. Since the combination of arms 54and 56 pinches the conduit 50, air flow back into the reservoir issubstantially prevented.

It will be appreciated that when pressure is released,

the condition of the helmet remains stabilized since the arm 54 remainsin the position illustrated in FIG. 4. The wearer thus maintainswhatever fit he finds to be comfortable during placing of the helmet onthe head. If for any reason the wearer feels that the helmet is tootight, it can be lifted momentarily whereby the arm 54 will pivot backin response to the action of resilient member 28 located within thereservoir 18. This will permit air to pass through conduit 50 into thereservoir. If the wearer is merely adjusting the fit, the pressure canthen be reapplied to pinch off the conduit. On the other hand, if thewearer intends to take off the helmet, the

' helmet is, thus, ready for re-fitting to the head of the next wearer.

FIG. 7 illustrates an alternative arrangement for shutting off the airpressure back to the reservoir 18. In this instance, an integral plasticmember is provided with an elongated arm 60 and a short arm 62. Anopening is provided in the area of the band 64 for receiving the conduit66. When the arm 60 is pivoted upwardly relative to the arm 62, thisresults in pinching of the conduit 66 whereby the flow of air or otherfluid is prevented. The pinching action is achieved by means of the bentportion 68 pressing against the conduit with the body of the short armportion 62 serving as a backup. A slot 70 is defined by the short arm 62to facilitate insertion of the conduit.

FIGS. .8 through illustrate application of the invention to a helmetstructure 72 which is of the type worn by football players. In thisembodiment of the invention, an air reservoir 74 is positioned at thecrown of the helmet. A tubular, soft resilient plastic member 76 islocated in the reservoir to maintain the reservoir in the position shownin FIG. 8 when the helmet is not being worn while tubular section 77 isstiffer and performs an impact absorbing function. The reservoir 74forms partof an assembly shown in FIG. 10. This assembly includesconduits 75,76 and 78, each of which extends from the reservoir to anassociated air chamber. The chambers 80 and 82 are provided for engagingthe sides of a wearers head, and a pair of associated chambers 84 and 86are provided for engaging upper and lower neck portions of the wearer.Conduits 88, 90, 92 and 94 communicate with the chambers 80 through 86.The latter conduits connect the chambers 80 and 82 to a chamber 96 whichis provided for engaging the front of the wearers head.

One-way valves 98, 100 and 102 are provided within I the respectiveconduits 75, 76 and 78. Accordingly, when the helmet is compressed, theair or other fluid within reservoir 74 is moved outwardly through thesevalves into the chambers 80, 82 and 84. The chamber 96 is supplied bythe chambers 80 and 82. It will be appreciated, particularly whenconsidering FIG. 9, that the construction described functions inessentially the same manner as described with reference to FIGS. 16.Thus, the reservoir 74 is compressed in opposition to the resilientmember 76 forcing air out of this reservoir into the sizing chamberswhich tend to expand and which, in this case, conform themselves to thehead of the wearer pressing against the head to provide a firm andcomfortable fit. A shut-off mechanism in the form of arm 104 is employedfor pinching the conduit 106 whereby air forced out of the reservoir 74will not return to the reservoir while the helmet is being worn. Thisarm is hinged at 108, and may be one of the structures illustrated inFIGS. 6 and 7.

In the embodiment of FIGS. 8 through 10, a resilient impact foam liner10 is provided for the interior surface of the helmet shell 112. Thisliner is provided with openings for receiving the reservoir 74 and theinterconnected chambers. The chambers will provide a substantial degreeof protection; however, the liner provides added protection in the eventthat the chambers should be completely compressed. Additionalresilientpads 114 may be located within the chambers to further increase theprotection afforded by the construction.

FIG. 11 illustrates a modified version of an air reservoir. In thisinstance, the reservoir 116 is provided with an encircling band 118which includes an end portion 120 defining openings 122. The end 124 ofthe band includes an enlarged head portion adapted to be received andheld within one of the openings 122. It will be appreciated thatconnecting of the band at one or the other of the openings will changethe volume within the reservoir. This arrangement may be particularlydesirable when the helmets are-to be used at various altitudes. In thisconnection, altimeter readings could be printed adjacent the openings122 so that the user could adjust the band 118, depending upon thealtitude conditions of helmet use.

In the embodiment of the invention shown in FIGS. 12-17, a helmetincorporates a sizing arrangement which includes a front chamber 132 forengaging-the forehead of the wearer and also side and rear chambers 134.A main reservoir 136 is positioned in the top of the helmet, and thereservoir is pressed in the manner previously described. Air is adaptedto pass through conduit 138 in the direction of the rear chambers 134. Aone-way valve 140 is located in conduit 138 and this valve is of thetype shown in FIG. 10 whereby air is adapted to enter the rear chambers134 but cannot return.

The chamber 132 is supported on a stiff member 142 which defines an endportion 144 secured by rivets 146 to the beak 148 of the helmet. Themember 142 defines a bead 150 which is adapted to be received by anindented portion 152 of the helmet shell. Conduit 153 extends from thereservoir 136 and terminates, as best shown in FIG. 16, in a juncture154 which is located immediately opposite the position of the bead 150on the member 142. The conduits 156 extend outwardly from this juncturefor the passage of air through conduits 156 from the chambers 134.

In the operation of this structure, the pressure in chambers 132, 134and 136 is substantially equalized when the helmet 130 is not in use.Upon placement of the helmet on the head, the reservoir 136 willbecompressed whereby air will pass through conduit 138 into the lines156; This supply of air will cause the chambers 134 to expand until thehelmet is properly fit. The bead 150 will press against the juncture 154as shown in FIG. 14 thereby closing off communication between the lines153 and 156 to prevent return flow to reservoir 136 until the helmet isremoved from the head.

In the structure described, an additional line 158 may be provided forpassing air from line 156 into chamber 132 whereby this chamber willalso expand during placement of the helmet on the head. In thearrangement of FIG. 17, the bead 150 is located for direct engagementwith line 153 rather than at a juncture between this line and the line156. This arrangement will also prevent passage of air through the line153 during helmet fitting.

In the structure shown in FIG. 18, a crown reservoir 160 communicatesthrough lines 162 with fitting chambers 164. The latter may be locatedin any desired position, for example, if the system is to be used in ahelmet whereby side, front and back chambers would be employed.

The reservoir 160 includes an outer air chamber 166, and an inner airchamber 168 with the lines 162 opening into this inner chamber. Anintermediate wall 170 divides the respective chambers, and openings 172in this wall provide communication between the chambers.

A plate 174 is mounted on a rivet 176 which is received by an opening inthe wall 170 with the length of the rivet permitting reciprocation ofthe plate relative to the wall. When the system illustrated is utiliziedin a helmet, pressure is applied to the chamber 166 which forces theplate 174 away from the openings 172 whereby air is forced through lines162 into chambers 164. By maintaining this pressure, the wearer of thehelmet can achieve a comfortable fit. As soon as the wearer relievesmanual pressure on the helmet, there will be a tendency for the chamber166 to expand whereby the resulting tendency toward a pressuredifferential will immediately close the plate 174 thereby maintainingthe comfortable fit for the wearer.

In the structure shown in FIGS. 19-22, a crown reservoir 180 contains atubular foam structure 182 which normally maintains the reservoir in anexpanded state. Lines 184 communicate the reservoir with any desirednumber of fitting chambers. Airin the reservoir chamber 186 is adaptedto pass into these lines, and in this connection, the tubular structure182 serves as a seal wherebyair in the chamber 186 will not moveoutwardly through this tubular member.

A valve structure comprising a leaf valve 188 and a stiff apertured disc190 are supported within the structure by means of a plasticsheet member192. This sheet member defines openings 194 which align with theapertures v196 of the disc 190.

In the operation of the structure of FIGS. 19-22, the tubular member 182will be compressed upon the application of force which ismanuallyapplied as when placing a helmet on the head. This action willforce air from the chamber 186 through the openings 194 and 196. Theleaf valve 188 permits this passage of air as long as there is continuedapplication of pressure. The air passes through channels 198 whichcommunicate with the lines 184. As soon as the pressure on the chamber186 is relieved, as when the user removes his hands from the helmetshell, the tendency of the chamber 186 to expand causes the leaf valve188 to move downwardly into the dotted line position shown therebyclosing off the openings 196.

FIG. 23 illustrates one means for introducing air to a reservoir 200,this reservoir being any of the types described herein. Throughout thelife ofa structure of the type described, air may be lost which willrequire replenishing of the air. In addition, it may be necessary tochange the amount of air within a system, for example when differentaltitudes are encountered. The structure of FIG. 23 includes a bulb 202which is adapted to be manually depressed whereby air entering the bulbthrough port 204 will be forced through needle 206. This needle isadapted to be forced through valve 208 whereby the opening 210 in theend'of the valve will supply air to the interior of the reservoir 200.In addition, the mere insertion of the needle valve without theapplication of pressure to the bulb 202 will provide for the removal ofair where a decrease in the amount of air is desired.

The arrangement of FIG. 24 comprises a helmet 210 which is provided withan air reservoir 212 having a conduit 217 extending therefrom forpassing air to the interconnected chambers 216. These chamberspreferably extend all around the interior of the helmet for protectingthe front, back and sides of the wearers head.

Extending from the chambers 216 and back to the reservoir 212 is aconduit 214. The conduit 214 is received within bands 218 and 220 whichare formed on the sections 222 and 224 of hinged member 226. The conduit214 may be provided with double outlet openings 228 for the distributionof air in both directions.

The section 222 of the hingedmember 226 is secured to the front wall ofthe helmet, and the section 224 is movable away from this front wall.When the helmet is not in use, this section is located in the positionshown in FIG. 24. Upon placement of the helmet on the head, the wearershead will compress the reservoir 212 thereby forcing air through one wayvalve 227 in conduit 217 for passage into the chambers 216. At the sametime, the wearers head will bend the section 224 upwardly and thissection will pinch the conduit 214 to' the extent that passage of airback into reservoir 212 is prevented. The user continues. to pull downon the helmet to expand chambers 216 until a confortable fit is obtainedand when-pressure by the wearer is released, an equilibrium condition isachieved whereby the fit is maintained until the wearer removes thehelmet. The fit, of course, is restored each time the helmet is placedon a wearers head. As in'the case with the various other structures,the'automatic fitting is of particular value where the same helmet is tobe used by several different persons.

In the structureof FIG..24, a belt 230 is fit around the reservoir 212for changing the pressure of the air within the reservoir. This belt andreservoir thus function in the manner of the structure illustrated inFIG. 11.

In the system illustrated in FIGS. 2729, a central reservoir 240 isnormally maintained in an expanded condition by means of springs 242.These springs may comprise a tubular resilient member as illustrated inFIG. 19. At any rate, when the system of FIG. 27 is incorporated in ahelmet shell or the like, the reservoir 240 will assume its largestdimension when the helmet is not in use.

An opening 244 is formed in the bottom wall 246 of the reservoir, andthis opening communicates with an adjacent chamber 248. The chamber 248defines two or more openings 250 which communicate with line 252. Thisline, as well as lines 254 and 256 provide means for transferring airbetween the reservoir 240 to the fitting chambers 258 and 260. Thelatter chamber is connected by means ofthe line 256 to one of thechambers 258, and it will be understood that any number or configurationof such additional chambers may be employed in accordance with theconcepts of this invention, depending upon the particular fitting andprotection needs involved.

The chamber 248 holds a balloon valve member 262 I which may be formedfrom latex or similar material. In the use of this structure, theplacement of a helmet on the head will result in the compression ofchamber 240 as shown in FIG. 28, and the balloon valve member 262 willinflate; however, the manual pressure is sufficient to force air fromthe reservoir 240 into the lines directed to the fitting members 258 and260 whereby these members will expand to provide the desired fit. Adegree of back pressure will develop tending to force the valve member262 to close off the opening 244, and this back pressure is onlyovercome by the exertion of state by means of tubular foam member 272. Awall 274 separates the reservoir from a chamber 276 and lines 278 extendfrom the chamber for purposes of delivering air to any number of fittingmembers. A valve structure in the form of leaf spring elements 280 ispositioned on the wall 274. These leaf spring members are held in placeby means of a rivet 282, this rivet defining a shank 284 which extendsthrough an opening in the valve member and an aligned opening 274. Thehead 286 of the rivet is normally in spaced relationship rela-' tive tothis wall.

The valve member is formedof a flexible material, for example, a stripof polyethylene, whereby the application of pressure to the reservoir270 will force the valve member away from openings 288 which are formedin the wall 274. Air will, therefore, be distributed in the system aslong as this manual pressure is applied. When the pressure is relieved,the tendency toward the creation of a vacuum in the chamber 270 providesthe necessary back pressure to close the valve member 280 whereby thesystem will be at equilibrium as shown in FIG. 32.

The reservoir 270 defines an enlarged pocket 290 which is provided forpurposes of restoring the system to the condition of FIG. 30, forexample if a helmet is to be used by a different individual. As shown inFIG. 33, the restoration is easily accomplished through engagement ofthe head 286 of the rivet 282 whereby the valve 280 is forced away fromthe wall 274 so that air will fill the reservoir 270 as the tubularmember 272 forces the reservoir to expand. 7

It will be appreciated that the headgear sizing means described providedistinct advantages with respect to conventional arrangements whereinstraps or other adjustable means are provided for varying the fit of ahelmet. The structure described can be merely placed on the head of theuser, and it will then be automatically held to desired dimensions aslong as the user keeps the helmet on his head. The helmet can bedesigned to rapidly return to an equilibrium position as soon aspressure is relieved or the fit can be maintained. The refitting featuremakes the helmet particularly desirable as a battering helmet since suchhelmets are frequently used by a plurality of individuals. Since thehelmet can rapidly be fitted to any individual, problems such as gamedelays can be eliminated.

By providing a proper fit, the helmet constructions described provideanother highly important advantage. Thus, it is known that a properlyfit helmet will provide a safer helmet, and this is accomplished in ahighly efficient way by means of the structure of this invention. Theprovision of resilient padding in addition to the sizing means alsoincreases the safety factor of the helmet. All of these advantages areaccomplished by means of the relatively simple structures describedwhereby low cost production of the helmets is possible.

It will be understood that various changes and modifications may be madein the above described construction which provide the characteristicsand advantages of this invention.

What is claimed is:

1. In a headgear construction comprising a shell, and fitting meanswithin the shell for engagement with the head of the wearer, theimprovement wherein said fitting means comprises at least one chamber, asource of compressible fluid, means interconnecting said source and saidchamber, said interconnecting means including a first means permittingpassage of said fluid from said source to said chamber, and a secondmeans permitting passage of said fluid from said chamber to said source,meansengageable by the head of the wearer upon placement of the headgearon the head operating to transfer said fluid through said first meansfrom said source to said chamber whereby the dimensions of the headreceiving space within the helmet will vary, and means for restrictingoperation of said second means upon placement of the headgear on thehead to restrict passage of said fluidback to said source to therebysubstantially maintain the variation in size change while the headgearisin place on the head.

2. A construction in accordance with claim 1 wherein said sourcecomprises a flexible reservoir.

3. A construction in accordance with claim 2 wherein said reservoir islocated beneath the crown of said shell, and wherein said reservoir iscompressed to transfer said fluid out of said reservoir when thereservoir is engaged by the top of the wearers head.

4. A construction in accordance with claim 3 wherein said chamberengages the sides of the wearers head, said first means comprising aconduit extending between the reservoir and chamber, and a one-way valvein said conduit permitting flow of fluid only in the direction from thereservoir to the chamber.

5. A construction in accordance with claim 4 wherein said second meanscomprises a second conduit extending from said chamber to saidreservoir, and shut-off means engageable with said second conduit whenthe headgear is on the head operating to restrict the flow of fluidthrough said second conduit.

6. A construction in accordance with claim 5 wherein said shut-off meanscomprises a pivotally mounted arm adapted to be pressed against saidconduit.

7. A construction in accordance with claim 3 wherein said fitting meansinclude a'plurality of said chambers, said chambersbeing located inspaced positions relative to the side wall of said shell for engagingthe sides of the wearers head, said first means comprising conduitsinterconnecting said reservoir and chambers, .said conduits includingone-way valve means for permitting flow of fluid only in the directionfrom the reservoir to the chambers.

8. A construction in accordance with claim 7 wherein said second meanscomprises at least one second conduit extending from said chamber tosaid reservoir. and shut-off means engageable with said second conduitwhen the headgear is on the head operating to stop the flow of fluidthrough said second conduit.

9. A construction in accordance with claim 8 wherein said shut-off meanscomprises a pivotally mounted arm adapted to be pressed against saidconduit.

10. A construction in accordance with claim 7 including resilientpadding secured to the inside wall of said shell to provide additionalprotection for the head of the wearer.

11. A construction in accordance with claim 7 including resilientpadding located within said chambers.

12. A construction in accordance with claim 11 including additionalresilient padding surrounding said chambers.

13. A construction in accordance with claim 2 including means foradjusting the volume of said reservoir to accommodate differentatmospheric pressure conditions.

14. A- construction in accordance with claim 6 wherein said arm extendsover said reservoir for engagement by the wearers head, said arm beingincluded in an assembly having a short arm portion pivotally attached tosaid first mentioned arm, and an opening defined by said assemblyreceiving said second conduitto pinch the conduit shut upon pivoting ofsaid arm.

15. A construction in accordance with claim 14 wherein said firstmentioned arm and said short arm are formed integrally from a, flexibleplastic material.

16. In a headgear construction comprising a shell, and fitting meanswithin the shell for engagement with the head of the wearer, theimprovement wherein said fitting means comprise atleast one chamber, asource of compressible fluid, means interconnecting said source and saidchamber, said interconnecting means including means permitting passageof said fluid from said source to said chamber and permitting passage ofsaid fluid from said chamber to said source-means engageable by the headof the wearer upon placement of the headgear on the head operating totransfer said fluid through said interconnecting means from said sourceto said chamber whereby the dimensions of the head receiving spacewithin the helmet will vary, means for restricting passage of said fluidback to said source when said headgear is on the head to therebysubstantially maintain the variation in size change while the headgearis in place on the head, and means for automatically transferring saidfluid back to said source through said interconnecting means when theheadgear isv removed from the head.

17. A construction in accordance with claim 16 wherein said sourcecomprises a flexible reservoir.

18. A construction in accordance with claim 17 wherein said reservoir islocated beneath the crown of said shell, and wherein said reservoir iscompressed to transfer said fluid out of said reservoir when thereservoir is engaged by the top of the wearers head.

19. A construction in accordance with claim 16 wherein said sourcecomprises a fluid reservoir defining a wall portion, openings defined bysaid wall portion for the passage of fluid into said interconnectingmeans, and valve means for closing said openings, said valve means beingmoved away from said openings upon the application of pressure to saidreservoir, and said valve means covering said openings when saidpressure is relieved, back pressure in said system holding said valvemeans against said openings.

20. A construction in accordance with claim 16 wherein said sourcecomprises a reservoir, and including resilient means within saidreservoir for normally maintaining the reservoir in an expanded state,said reservoir being engaged by the head of the wearer upon placementof'the headgear on the head to thereby compress said reservoir inopposition to said resilient means.

21. A construction in accordance with claim 20 wherein said reservoirdefines an end wall and including openings in the end wall for thepassage of fluid from the reservoir to said interconnecting means, theapplication of pressure to the reservoir forcing fluid through saidopenings, and valve means associated with said openings, said valvemeans providing for closing of the openings upon relief of the pressurewith the back pressure from said interconnecting means holding the valvemeans in the closed position.

22. A construction in accordance with claim 21 including means formanually engaging said valve means to force the valve means away fromsaid opening to thereby provide'for return of fluid into said reservoir.

23. In a headgear construction comprising a shell. and fitting meanswithin the shell for engagement with the head of the wearer, theimprovement wherein said fitting means comprise at least one chamber,means movably supporting said one chamber, a source of compressiblefluid, means interconnecting said source and said chamber,-saidinterconnecting means including means permitting passage of said fluidfrom said source to said chamber and permitting passage of said fluidfrom said chamber to said source, means engageable by the head of thewearer upon placement of the headgear on the head operating to transfersaid fluid through said interconnecting means from said source to saidchamber whereby the dimensions of the head re ceiving space within thehelmet will vary, said interconnecting means including a passageengageable' with the means supporting said chamber, placement of theheadgear on the head and engagement of the head with said chambercausing the means supporting the chamber to close off said passage tothereby provide means for restricting passage of said fluid back to saidsource when said headgear-is on the head and to thereby substantiallymaintain the variation in size change while the headgear is in place onthe head.

24. In a headgear construction comprising a shell, and fitting meanswithin the shell for engagement with the head of the wearer, theimprovement wherein saidfitting means comprise at least one chamber, asource of compressible fluid, means interconnecting said source and saidchamber, said interconnecting means including means permitting passageof said fluid from said source to said chamber and permitting passage ofsaid fluid from said chamber to said source, means engageable by thehead of the wearer upon placement of the headgear on the head operatingto transfer said pinching of the conduit to thereby provide means for'restricting passage of said fluid back to said source when said headgearis on the head and to thereby substantially maintain the variation insize change while the headgear is in place on the head.

25. In a headgear construction comprising a shell, and fitting meanswithin the shell for engagement with the head of the wearer, theimprovement wherein said fitting means comprise at least one chamber, asource of compressible fluid, means interconnecting said source and saidchamber, said interconnecting means including means permitting passageof said fluidfrom said source to said chamber and permitting passage ofsaid fluid from said chamber to said source, said source comprising areservoir engageable by the head of the wearer upon placement of theheadgear on the head, said reservoir-including a wall and an openingdefined by said wall for the passage of fluid between said reservoir andsaid interconnecting means to thereby transfer said fluid from saidsource to said chamber whereby the dimensions of the head receivingspace within the helmet will vary, and a flexible valve means positionedadjacent said opening, said valve means comprising a balloon memberhaving its interior communicating with said interconnecting meanswhereby application of pressure to said reservoir provides for passageof fluid through said opening into said interconnecting means and intosaid balloon member relief of said pressure forcing said balloon memberinto engagement with said opening to provide means for restrictingpassage of said fluid back to said source when said headgear is on thehead to thereby substantially maintain the variation in size changewhile the headgear is in place on the head.

26. In a headgear construction comprising a shell, and fitting meanswithin the shell for engagement with the head of the wearer, theimprovement wherein said fitting means comprise at leastone chamber, asource of compressible fluid comprising a flexible reservoir,

means interconnecting said source and said chamber, said interconnectingmeans including means permitting passage of said fluid from said sourceto said chamber and permitting passage of said fluid from said chamberto said source, means engageable by the head of the wearer uponplacement-of the headgear on the head operating totransfer said fluidthrough said passage means from said source to said chamber whereby thedimensions of the head receiving space within the helmet will vary,means for restricting passage of said fluid back to said source whensaid headgear is on the head to thereby substantially maintain thevariation in size change while the headgear is in place on the head, andwherein said source and chamber are normally closed whereby the fluidcontained is maintained constant, and including means for openingcommunication with said source and chamber for'adding'fluid thereto orremoving fluid therefrom.

27, A construction in accordance with claim 16 wherein said shell isformed of a substantially, inflexible material.

28. A construction in accordance with claim 26 wherein said means foropening communication comprise a valve formed of resilient materialwhereby the valve opening is normally closed, a needle supportedadjacent said valve, said needle being adapted to enter the valveopening and, said needle defining a hollow passage and an end opening,and a source of fluid connected to said needle whereby forcing of saidneedle into the valve opening permits the entry and removal of airthrough the needle passage.

1. In a headgear construction comprising a shell, and fitting meanswithin the shell for engagement with the head of the wearer, theimprovement wherein said fitting means comprises at least one chamber, asource of compressible fluid, means interconnecting said source and saidchamber, said interconnecting means including a first means permittingpassage of said fluid from said source to said chamber, and a secondmeans permitting passage of said fluid from said chamber to said source,means engageable by the head of the wearer upon placement of theheadgear on the head operating to transfer said fluid through said firstmeans from said source to said chamber whereby the dimensions of thehead receiving space within the helmet will vary, and means forrestricting operation of said second means upon placement of theheadgear on the head to restrict passage of said fluid back to saidsource to thereby substantially maintain the variation in size changewhile the headgear is in place on the head.
 2. A construction inaccordance with claim 1 wherein said source comprises a flexiblereservoir.
 3. A construction in accordance with claim 2 wherein saidreservoir is located beneath the crown of said shell, and wherein saidreservoir is compressed to transfer said fluid out of said reservoirwhen the reservoir is engaged by the top of the wearer''s head.
 4. Aconstruction in accordance with claim 3 wherein said chamber engages thesides of the wearer''s head, said first means comprising a conduitextending between the reservoir and chamber, and a one-way valve in saidconduit permitting flow of fluid only in the direction from thereservoir to the chamber.
 5. A construction in accordance with claim 4wherein said second means comprises a second conduit extending from saidchamber to said reservoir, and shut-off means engageable with saidsecond conduit when the headgear is on the head operating to restrictthe flow of fluid through said second conduit.
 6. A construction inaccordance with claim 5 wherein said shut-off means comprises apivotally mounted arm adapted to be pressed against said conduit.
 7. Aconstruction in accordance with claim 3 wherein said fitting meansinclude a plurality of said chambers, said chambers being located inspaced positions relative to the side wall of said shell for engagingthe sides of the wearer''s head, said first means comprising conduitsinterconnecting said reservoir and chambers, said conduits includingone-way valve means for permitting flow of fluid only in the directionfrom the reservoir to the chambers.
 8. A construction in accordance withclaim 7 wherein said second means comprises at least one second conduitextending from said chamber to said reservoir, and shut-off meansengageable with said second conduit when the headgear is on the headoperating to stop the flow of fluid through said second conduit.
 9. Aconstruction in accordance with claim 8 wherein said shut-off meanscomprises a pivotally mounted arm adapted to be pressed against saidconduit.
 10. A construction in accordance with claim 7 includingresilient padding secured to the inside wall of said shell to provideadditional protection for the head of the wearer.
 11. A construction inaccordance with claim 7 including resilient padding located within saidchambers.
 12. A construction in accordance with claim 11 includingadditional resilient padding surrounding said chambers.
 13. Aconstruction in accordance with claim 2 including means for adjustingthe volume of said reservoir to accommodate different atmosphericpressure conditions.
 14. A construction in accordance with claim 6wherein sAid arm extends over said reservoir for engagement by thewearer''s head, said arm being included in an assembly having a shortarm portion pivotally attached to said first mentioned arm, and anopening defined by said assembly receiving said second conduit to pinchthe conduit shut upon pivoting of said arm.
 15. A construction inaccordance with claim 14 wherein said first mentioned arm and said shortarm are formed integrally from a flexible plastic material.
 16. In aheadgear construction comprising a shell, and fitting means within theshell for engagement with the head of the wearer, the improvementwherein said fitting means comprise at least one chamber, a source ofcompressible fluid, means interconnecting said source and said chamber,said interconnecting means including means permitting passage of saidfluid from said source to said chamber and permitting passage of saidfluid from said chamber to said source, means engageable by the head ofthe wearer upon placement of the headgear on the head operating totransfer said fluid through said interconnecting means from said sourceto said chamber whereby the dimensions of the head receiving spacewithin the helmet will vary, means for restricting passage of said fluidback to said source when said headgear is on the head to therebysubstantially maintain the variation in size change while the headgearis in place on the head, and means for automatically transferring saidfluid back to said source through said interconnecting means when theheadgear is removed from the head.
 17. A construction in accordance withclaim 16 wherein said source comprises a flexible reservoir.
 18. Aconstruction in accordance with claim 17 wherein said reservoir islocated beneath the crown of said shell, and wherein said reservoir iscompressed to transfer said fluid out of said reservoir when thereservoir is engaged by the top of the wearer''s head.
 19. Aconstruction in accordance with claim 16 wherein said source comprises afluid reservoir defining a wall portion, openings defined by said wallportion for the passage of fluid into said interconnecting means, andvalve means for closing said openings, said valve means being moved awayfrom said openings upon the application of pressure to said reservoir,and said valve means covering said openings when said pressure isrelieved, back pressure in said system holding said valve means againstsaid openings.
 20. A construction in accordance with claim 16 whereinsaid source comprises a reservoir, and including resilient means withinsaid reservoir for normally maintaining the reservoir in an expandedstate, said reservoir being engaged by the head of the wearer uponplacement of the headgear on the head to thereby compress said reservoirin opposition to said resilient means.
 21. A construction in accordancewith claim 20 wherein said reservoir defines an end wall and includingopenings in the end wall for the passage of fluid from the reservoir tosaid interconnecting means, the application of pressure to the reservoirforcing fluid through said openings, and valve means associated withsaid openings, said valve means providing for closing of the openingsupon relief of the pressure with the back pressure from saidinterconnecting means holding the valve means in the closed position.22. A construction in accordance with claim 21 including means formanually engaging said valve means to force the valve means away fromsaid opening to thereby provide for return of fluid into said reservoir.23. In a headgear construction comprising a shell, and fitting meanswithin the shell for engagement with the head of the wearer, theimprovement wherein said fitting means comprise at least one chamber,means movably supporting said one chamber, a source of compressiblefluid, means interconnecting said source and said chamber, saidinterconnecting means including means permitting passage of said fluidfrom said source to said chamber and permitting passage of said fluidfrom said chamber to said source, means engageable by the head of thewearer upon placement of the headgear on the head operating to transfersaid fluid through said interconnecting means from said source to saidchamber whereby the dimensions of the head receiving space within thehelmet will vary, said interconnecting means including a passageengageable with the means supporting said chamber, placement of theheadgear on the head and engagement of the head with said chambercausing the means supporting the chamber to close off said passage tothereby provide means for restricting passage of said fluid back to saidsource when said headgear is on the head and to thereby substantiallymaintain the variation in size change while the headgear is in place onthe head.
 24. In a headgear construction comprising a shell, and fittingmeans within the shell for engagement with the head of the wearer, theimprovement wherein said fitting means comprise at least one chamber, asource of compressible fluid, means interconnecting said source and saidchamber, said interconnecting means including means permitting passageof said fluid from said source to said chamber and permitting passage ofsaid fluid from said chamber to said source, means engageable by thehead of the wearer upon placement of the headgear on the head operatingto transfer said fluid through said passage means from said source tosaid chamber whereby the dimensions of the head receiving space withinthe helmet will vary, and wherein said interconnecting means comprise aflexible conduit, a hinged member tied to said conduit, said hingedmember being secured to the inner wall of said shell whereby the hingedmember is engaged by the head of the wearer upon placement of theheadgear on the head, engagement of the hinged member resulting inpinching of the conduit to thereby provide means for restricting passageof said fluid back to said source when said headgear is on the head andto thereby substantially maintain the variation in size change while theheadgear is in place on the head.
 25. In a headgear constructioncomprising a shell, and fitting means within the shell for engagementwith the head of the wearer, the improvement wherein said fitting meanscomprise at least one chamber, a source of compressible fluid, meansinterconnecting said source and said chamber, said interconnecting meansincluding means permitting passage of said fluid from said source tosaid chamber and permitting passage of said fluid from said chamber tosaid source, said source comprising a reservoir engageable by the headof the wearer upon placement of the headgear on the head, said reservoirincluding a wall and an opening defined by said wall for the passage offluid between said reservoir and said interconnecting means to therebytransfer said fluid from said source to said chamber whereby thedimensions of the head receiving space within the helmet will vary, anda flexible valve means positioned adjacent said opening, said valvemeans comprising a balloon member having its interior communicating withsaid interconnecting means whereby application of pressure to saidreservoir provides for passage of fluid through said opening into saidinterconnecting means and into said balloon member relief of saidpressure forcing said balloon member into engagement with said openingto provide means for restricting passage of said fluid back to saidsource when said headgear is on the head to thereby substantiallymaintain the variation in size change while the headgear is in place onthe head.
 26. In a headgear construction comprising a shell, and fittingmeans within the shell for engagement with the head of the wearer, theimprovement wherein said fitting means comprise at least one chamber, asource of compressible fluid comprising a flexible reservoir, meansinterconnecting said source and said chamber, said interconnecting meansincluding means permitting passage of said fluid from said source tosaid chamber and permitting pAssage of said fluid from said chamber tosaid source, means engageable by the head of the wearer upon placementof the headgear on the head operating to transfer said fluid throughsaid passage means from said source to said chamber whereby thedimensions of the head receiving space within the helmet will vary,means for restricting passage of said fluid back to said source whensaid headgear is on the head to thereby substantially maintain thevariation in size change while the headgear is in place on the head, andwherein said source and chamber are normally closed whereby the fluidcontained is maintained constant, and including means for openingcommunication with said source and chamber for adding fluid thereto orremoving fluid therefrom.
 27. A construction in accordance with claim 16wherein said shell is formed of a substantially inflexible material. 28.A construction in accordance with claim 26 wherein said means foropening communication comprise a valve formed of resilient materialwhereby the valve opening is normally closed, a needle supportedadjacent said valve, said needle being adapted to enter the valveopening and said needle defining a hollow passage and an end opening,and a source of fluid connected to said needle whereby forcing of saidneedle into the valve opening permits the entry and removal of airthrough the needle passage.